Gum disease


Gum disease

Gingivitis

Gingivitis and periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is very common but can be prevented through good oral hygiene.

Gingivitis = gum inflammation

Periodontitis = loss of the bone that support the teeth

What is gum inflammation (gingivitis)?

Healthy gums are pale, pink and firm. The gum tissue acts as a barrier and fits firmly around the tooth. Healthy gums do not bleed when you brush or clean between your teeth. Red, swollen and bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and if left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, loss of bone around the tooth. Around 40% of adults suffer from periodontitis – often without knowing it. Gingivitis and periodontitis can develop slowly and often without pain. The sooner the diseases are diagnosed and treated, the better.

What causes gingivitis?

A sticky film called dental plaque constantly forms on your teeth. If you don't clean properly, plaque will be left behind, especially between the teeth and along the gum line. When plaque accumulates in these areas, it causes inflamed gums (gingivitis), with redness and swelling. Inflamed gums may bleed when you clean your teeth.




Gingivitis can be prevented

You can do a lot yourself to prevent and reverse periodontal disease through proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day. Once a day, also clean between the teeth using interdental brushes, Mini Flosser or dental floss. A special toothbrush for cleaning hard-to-reach areas may also be needed.

Ask your dentist or dental hygienist for advice and instruction.

 



Prevent gum inflammation

If you suspect that you have gum inflammation, contact your dental professional. Taking note of the advice that your dental practitioner offers is of utmost importance for a successful result, even after treatment is completed. Regular check-ups in combination with your own home care are crucial to prevent the problems from returning.

Signs of gingivitis
  • Red and swollen gums
  • Bleeding when brushing

Healthy gums
Gum inflammation

Periodontitis

If plaque is not removed, it continues to grow in between the tooth and gums. On the root surface of the tooth, the plaque can harden into tartar which has a rough surface where new bacteria can attach with ease . These bacteria contribute to the loss of bone around the tooth. The gum inflammation has developed into periodontitis.

Information material

Read more in our patient guide Gum inflammation and periodontitis.




Always seek help for gingivitis

If you suspect gum inflammation, contact your dental professional. The cooperation between you and your caregiver is necessary for a successful result, even after treatment is completed. Regular check-ups in combination with your own home care are crucial to prevent the problems from returning.

 

Suitable products

20 items

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes Green - 0.8 mm (ISO 5)

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular...

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular toothbrush is unable to reach. This interdental brush has a long handle and an angled head for easier access between the back teeth. Use daily to keep gums and teeth healthy and fresh. TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes come in 6 color coded sizes and were developed in close collaboration with dental experts to ensure the highest quality in every detail. Daily use can remove up to 40% more plaque th...

$ 6.99

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes Pink - 0.4 mm (ISO 0)

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular...

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular toothbrush is unable to reach. This interdental brush has a long handle and an angled head for easier access between the back teeth. Use daily to keep gums and teeth healthy and fresh. TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes come in 6 color coded sizes and were developed in close collaboration with dental experts to ensure the highest quality in every detail. Daily use can remove up to 40% more plaque th...

$ 6.99

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes Orange - 0.45 mm (ISO 1)

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular...

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular toothbrush is unable to reach. This interdental brush has a long handle and an angled head for easier access between the back teeth. Use daily to keep gums and teeth healthy and fresh. TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes come in 6 color coded sizes and were developed in close collaboration with dental experts to ensure the highest quality in every detail. Daily use can remove up to 40% more plaque th...

$ 6.99

TePe GOOD™ Mini Flosser - 36 Pack

The TePe GOOD™ Mini Flosser is part of the unique TePe GOOD™ range made from bio-based plastic – ...

The TePe GOOD™ Mini Flosser is part of the unique TePe GOOD™ range made from bio-based plastic – without compromising on product quality, efficiency or design. TePe GOOD Mini Flosser is a pre-loaded floss holder for efficient and convenient use. It contains strong, PFAA free floss which glides easily through narrow interdental spaces. The cleverly designed bite plane helps to gently insert the floss. Sustainable products for a better tomorrow The slender handle fits comfortably in the han...

$ 4.39

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes Mixed Pack - 0.4-0.8 mm

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular...

TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular toothbrush is unable to reach. This interdental brush has a long handle and an angled head for easier access between the back teeth. Use daily to keep gums and teeth healthy and fresh. TePe Angle™ Interdental Brushes come in 6 color coded sizes and were developed in close collaboration with dental experts to ensure the highest quality in every detail. Daily use can remove up to 40% more plaque th...

$ 6.99

TePe® Interdental Brushes Original Black - 1.5 mm (ISO 8)

TePe Original Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regul...

TePe Original Interdental Brushes are designed to clean the gaps between the teeth, where a regular toothbrush is unable to reach. Our best-selling brush for removing plaque between the teeth, featuring a straight brush head and short handle - available in 9 sizes. Use daily to keep gums and teeth healthy and fresh. TePe Original Interdental Brushes come in 9 color coded sizes and were developed in close collaboration with dental experts to ensure the highest quality in every detail. Daily us...

$ 6.99

TePe® Dental Floss

TePe® Dental Floss is an expanding and strong dental floss that efficiently and gently removes p...

TePe® Dental Floss is an expanding and strong dental floss that efficiently and gently removes plaque between teeth. The floss easily slides between teeth due to its coating in vegetable wax and avocado oil. The pfas free floss contains of multiple threads which make an increased cleaning surface. This efficient plaque remover is made from recycled water bottles which reduces the environmental impact. Daily use together with the mild mint flavor will leave you feeling fresh and keep teeth an...

$ 4.99

TePe GOOD™ Mini Flosser - Dispenser Box 100 pc

The TePe GOOD™ Mini Flosser is part of the unique TePe GOOD™ range made from bio-based plastic – ...

The TePe GOOD™ Mini Flosser is part of the unique TePe GOOD™ range made from bio-based plastic – without compromising on product quality, efficiency or design. TePe GOOD Mini Flosser is a pre-loaded floss holder for efficient and convenient use. It contains strong, PFAA free floss which glides easily through narrow interdental spaces. The cleverly designed bite plane helps to gently insert the floss. Sustainable products for a better tomorrow The slender handle fits comfortably in the hand...

$ 21.25